Establishing an oncology massage therapy service in Eastern Quebec

The Association du cancer de l’Est du Québec works continuously to humanize the services provided to people affected by cancer and to show solidarity with them. In collaboration with the health institutions of Eastern Quebec, the Association created an oncology massage therapy service for the physical and psychological well-being of people undergoing cancer treatments.

Cancer and cancer treatments often cause stress. Massages that are adapted to the sick person’s condition are offered while she/he receives cancer treatments. This allows her/him to physically relax and feel the psychological benefit of this relaxation.

The service received the Prix québécois de cancérologie 2015, in the Supporting People category. The honour was awarded during the 2015 annual meeting of the Direction québécoise de cancérologie, under the theme of Best Practices of the Quebec Oncology Network.

The service is free. It is offered one to two half-days each week by massage therapists who are trained and certified in providing massages for people receiving treatment in oncology. These massage therapists adapt their techniques to the nature and stage of the disease, as well as to any specific contraindications and needs. They provide comfort, company, and calming and beneficial support for those affected by cancer.

Helping people affected by cancer feel better

In 2014, Association du cancer de l’Est du Québec opened the Cendrine and Philippe Wellness Centre. The Centre was built as an annex to the Hôtellerie Omer-Brazeau, at a cost of $900,000, to humanize the services offered to people affected by cancer in Eastern Quebec. It is the only centre east of Quebec City that is dedicated to the well-being of people affected by cancer. This peaceful and bright space creates an atmosphere of relaxation and tranquillity. People affected by the disease can enjoy a moment of calm on a comfortable outdoor terrace that encourages reflection and relaxation.

Everyone affected by cancer is welcome at the Cendrine and Philippe Wellness Centre. There, you can find support and guidance towards wellness during this difficult time, whether you are staying at the Hôtellerie or coming from the surrounding areas.

Supporting people affected by cancer and their loved ones

The Association du cancer de l’Est du Québec offers activities designed to meet the specific needs of those affected by the disease at the Cendrine and Philippe Wellness Centre. Whether you want to temper the disease and its impacts on everyday life, take a break, or learn how to use tools and tips that will help you feel better, anyone affected by cancer can find help and support.

A variety of activities are offered every week to support and guide those who are living with cancer, and their loved ones, regardless of their needs, interests or leanings. The programming evolves and the activity facilitators adapt to the group of people who come for the workshops.

Concrete activities that promote well-being

At the Cendrine and Philippe Wellness Centre, people affected by cancer experience various types of activities prepared specifically for them. Here is an overview:

• When you are dealing with cancer, it is reassuring and helpful to receive accurate and reliable information. At the Cendrine and Philippe Wellness Centre, information sessions are held on various topics for people with cancer and their loved ones, such as nutrition, anxiety, fear of recurrence, or lymphedema. All subjects are approached simply and unpretentiously.
• Physical activity is possible and beneficial when living with cancer. At the Cendrine and Philippe Wellness Centre, yoga, gentle physical exercises and deep breathing relaxation are among the physical activities practiced by people with cancer and their loved ones. During the summer, a Zen garden and a fountain on the outdoor terrace seem to pause time.
• Artistic expression and creativity help you feel better. At the Cendrine and Philippe Wellness Centre, art therapy is used to promote wellness and soothe anxiety. There we offer expression and creativity workshops led by an accredited art therapist.

All residents of Eastern Quebec are welcome to discover the energy and vitality emerging from the Cendrine and Philippe Wellness Centre. Simply register for one of the activities offered by the Association du cancer de l’Est du Québec.

Raising funds and contributing to the social economy

Created by the Association du cancer de l’Est du Québec in 1996, the Friperie de l’Est is an example of how the social economy can be profitable for the well-being of the community. The Friperie handles everyday items donated by the community, sells them, and donates the profits to the Association du cancer de l’Est du Québec.

The Friperie aims to contribute at least $100,000 to the Association du cancer de l’Est du Québec annually. This target was notably exceeded in 2016 with a contribution of $212,920. During its first 20 years of operation, the Friperie de l’Est has exceeded one million dollars in donations paid to the Association of cancer de l’Est du Québec, with a total donation amount of $1,615,421.

On top of financing the mission of the Association du cancer de l’Est du Québc, the Friperie de l’Est contributes to the integration of people living with a disability, promotes volunteering and is involved in the community and compensatory work management. The Friperie de l’Est also salvages and recycles used and reusable goods that the community wishes to off-load.

The Friperie de l’Est has become a model economic agent, socially and environmentally. Like the Association du cancer de l’Est du Québec, it actively contributes to the collective well-being of Eastern Quebec.